U.S. patent application number 16/239024 was filed with the patent office on 2019-05-09 for communication control method and user terminal.
This patent application is currently assigned to KYOCERA Corporation. The applicant listed for this patent is KYOCERA Corporation. Invention is credited to Henry CHANG, Noriyoshi FUKUTA, Kugo MORITA.
Application Number | 20190141664 16/239024 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51933489 |
Filed Date | 2019-05-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20190141664 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CHANG; Henry ; et
al. |
May 9, 2019 |
COMMUNICATION CONTROL METHOD AND USER TERMINAL
Abstract
A communication control method includes receiving MDT
(Minimization of Drive Test) information, by a user equipment that
supports a cellular communication and a WLAN (Wireless Local Area
Network) communication, from a base station included in a cellular
network, performing, by the user equipment, WLAN measurement on a
WLAN access point, and transmitting an MDT report message to the
base station, by the user equipment, where the MDT report message
includes information indicating location of the user equipment and
information indicating WLAN measurement result of the WLAN access
point. The WLAN measurement result includes an identifier of the
WLAN access point and signal strength of the WLAN access point.
Inventors: |
CHANG; Henry; (San Diego,
CA) ; FUKUTA; Noriyoshi; (Yokohama-shi, JP) ;
MORITA; Kugo; (Yokohama-shi, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
KYOCERA Corporation |
Kyoto |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
KYOCERA Corporation
Kyoto
JP
|
Family ID: |
51933489 |
Appl. No.: |
16/239024 |
Filed: |
January 3, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15628825 |
Jun 21, 2017 |
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16239024 |
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14891873 |
Nov 17, 2015 |
9693334 |
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PCT/JP2014/062825 |
May 14, 2014 |
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15628825 |
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61825262 |
May 20, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04W 48/16 20130101;
H04W 84/042 20130101; H04W 24/02 20130101; H04W 88/06 20130101;
H04W 64/003 20130101; H04W 84/12 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04W 64/00 20060101
H04W064/00; H04W 48/16 20060101 H04W048/16 |
Claims
1. A communication control method comprising: a step A of receiving
MDT (Minimization of Drive Test) information, by a user equipment
that supports a cellular communication and a WLAN (Wireless Local
Area Network) communication, from a base station included in a
cellular network; a step B of performing, by the user equipment,
WLAN measurement on a WLAN access point; a step C of transmitting
an MDT report message to the base station, by the user equipment,
the MDT report message including information indicating location of
the user equipment and information indicating WLAN measurement
result of the WLAN access point; wherein the WLAN measurement
result includes an identifier of the WLAN access point and signal
strength of the WLAN access point.
2. The communication control method according to claim 1, wherein
the MDT information includes WLAN measurement request information
that requests measurement to the WLAN access point, and the WLAN
measurement request information includes an identifier identifying
the WLAN access point.
3. The communication control method according to claim 1, wherein
in the step B, the user equipment performs the WLAN measurement on
the WLAN access point in an idle state of the cellular
communication, the communication control method further comprises:
before the step C, storing the WLAN measurement result, by the user
equipment in the idle state, wherein in the step C, the user
equipment transmits, the MDT report message including information
indicating location of the user equipment and information
indicating the stored WLAN measurement result of the WLAN access
point, to the base station in response to a request from the base
station.
4. A user equipment supporting a cellular communication and a WLAN
(Wireless Local Area Network) communication, comprising: a
processor and a memory, wherein the processor is configured to
execute processes of: receiving MDT (Minimization of Drive Test)
information from a base station included in a cellular network;
performing WLAN measurement on a WLAN access point; transmitting an
MDT report message to the base station, the MDT report message
including information indicating location of the user equipment and
information indicating WLAN measurement result of the WLAN access
point; wherein the WLAN measurement result includes an identifier
of the WLAN access point and signal strength of the WLAN access
point.
5. An apparatus for controlling a user equipment supporting a
cellular communication and a WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)
communication, the apparatus comprising: a processor and a memory,
wherein the processor is configured to execute processes of:
receiving MDT (Minimization of Drive Test) information from a base
station included in a cellular network; performing WLAN measurement
on a WLAN access point; transmitting an MDT report message to the
base station, the MDT report message including information
indicating location of the user equipment and information
indicating WLAN measurement result of the WLAN access point;
wherein the WLAN measurement result includes an identifier of the
WLAN access point and signal strength of the WLAN access point.
6. A base station comprising: a processor and a memory, wherein the
processor is configured to execute processes of: transmitting MDT
(Minimization of Drive Test) information to a user equipment; and
receiving an MDT report message from the user equipment, the MDT
report message including information indicating location of the
user equipment and information indicating WLAN (Wireless Local Area
Network) measurement result of a WLAN access point; wherein the
WLAN measurement result includes an identifier of the WLAN access
point and signal strength of the WLAN access point.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation Application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 15/628,825, filed Jun. 21, 2017, which
is a Continuation Application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
14/891,873, filed Nov. 17, 2015, which is the U.S. National Phase
Application of International Patent Application No.
PCT/JP2014/062825, filed May 14, 2014, which claims benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/825,262, filed May 20, 2013, the
entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a communication control
method and a user terminal which are used in a cellular
communication system capable of working together with a wireless
LAN system (WLAN system).
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] In recent years, the popularization of user terminals
(so-called dual terminal) that support communication schemes of
both WLAN communications and cellular communications is in
progress. Moreover, WLAN access points managed by operators of
cellular communication systems are increasing.
[0004] 3GPP (3.sup.rd Generation Partnership Project), which is a
standardization project of cellular communication systems, is
planning to consider techniques capable of enhancing the
interworking between cellular communication systems and WLAN
systems in the level of radio access networks (RAN) (see Non-patent
document 1).
[0005] On the other hand, in order to achieve efficient access
point discovery processes performed by user terminals, the
standardization of ANDSF (Access Network Discovery and Selection
Function) is currently in progress. In ANDSF, ANDSF servers
provided in core networks provide information regarding the WLAN to
user terminals by NAS (Non Access Stratum) messages.
PRIOR ART DOCUMENT
Non-patent document
[0006] [Non-patent document 1] 3GPP contribution RP-1201455
SUMMARY
[0007] By the way, in order to enhance the RAN level cooperation
between cellular communication systems and WLAN systems, it is
preferable that cellular base stations know geographic locations of
WLAN access points (In particular, WLAN access points provided in
the own coverage area).
[0008] Here, cellular base stations acquire the access point
location information regarding geographic locations of WLAN access
points from the ANDSF servers, and thereby it is considered that
the cellular base stations can know the geographic locations of the
WLAN access points.
[0009] However, the ANDSF is an optional function, and interfaces
between cellular base stations and ANDSF servers may not exist.
Therefore, a case where cellular base stations can't acquire the
access point location information from the ANDSF servers is
supposed. In such case, it is difficult for cellular base stations
to know the geographic locations of WLAN access points.
[0010] The present disclosure enables a cellular base station to
know the geographic location of the WLAN access point even when the
cellular base station can't acquire the access point location
information from the ANDSF server.
[0011] A communication control method according to the present
disclosure comprises a step A of receiving MDT (Minimization of
Drive Test) information, by a user equipment that supports a
cellular communication and a WLAN communication, from a base
station included in a cellular network, a step B of performing, by
the user equipment, WLAN measurement on a WLAN access point, and a
step C of transmitting an MDT report message to the base station,
by the user equipment, the MDT report message including information
indicating location of the user equipment and information
indicating WLAN measurement result of the WLAN access point. The
WLAN measurement result includes an identifier of the WLAN access
point and signal strength of the WLAN access point.
[0012] A user equipment according to the present disclosure, which
supports a cellular communication and a WLAN communication,
comprises a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to
execute processes of receiving MDT information from a base station
included in a cellular network, performing WLAN measurement on a
WLAN access point, and transmitting an MDT report message to the
base station. The MDT report message includes information
indicating location of the user equipment and information
indicating WLAN measurement result of the WLAN access point, and
the WLAN measurement result includes an identifier of the WLAN
access point and signal strength of the WLAN access point.
[0013] An apparatus according to the present disclosure, for
controlling a user equipment supporting a cellular communication
and a WLAN communication, comprises a processor and a memory. The
processor is configured to execute processes of receiving MDT
information from a base station included in a cellular network,
performing WLAN measurement on a WLAN access point, and
transmitting an MDT report message to the base station. The MDT
report message includes information indicating location of the user
equipment and information indicating WLAN measurement result of the
WLAN access point, and the WLAN measurement result includes an
identifier of the WLAN access point and signal strength of the WLAN
access point.
[0014] A base station according to the present disclosure comprises
a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to execute
processes of transmitting MDT information to a user equipment, and
receiving an MDT report message from the user equipment. The MDT
report message includes information indicating location of the user
equipment and information indicating WLAN measurement result of a
WLAN access point, and the WLAN measurement result includes an
identifier of the WLAN access point and signal strength of the WLAN
access point.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram according to a
first embodiment to a fifth embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a UE (user terminal) according
to the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an eNB (cellular base station)
according to the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an AP (access point) according
to the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a protocol stack diagram of a radio interface in a
LTE system.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operational environment
according to the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 7 is an operation sequence diagram according to the
first embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 8 is an operation sequence diagram according to the
first embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 9 is an operation sequence diagram according to the
second embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 10 is an operation sequence diagram according to the
third embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 11 is an operation sequence diagram according to the
fourth embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 12 is an operation sequence diagram according to the
fifth embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0027] [Overview of Exemplary Embodiments]
[0028] A communication control method according to a first
embodiment to a fifth embodiment includes: a step A of acquiring,
by a user terminal that supports a cellular communication and a
WLAN communication, access point location information on a
geographical location of a WLAN access point; a step B of
transmitting, from the user terminal to a cellular network, the
access point location information; and a step C of acquiring, by a
cellular base station included in the cellular network, the access
point location information.
[0029] In the first embodiment to the third embodiment, and the
fifth embodiment, in the step A, the user terminal positioned
within a coverage area of the WLAN access point acquires the access
point location information by measuring information indicating a
geographical location of the user terminal
[0030] In the first embodiment to the third embodiment, in the step
A, the user terminal acquires the access point location information
on the basis of MDT-associated information configured from the
cellular network.
[0031] In the first embodiment to the third embodiment, the
MDT-associated information includes information for requesting a
measurement of the WLAN access point.
[0032] In the first embodiment to the third embodiment, the
MDT-associated information includes an identifier indicating a WLAN
access point arranged within a coverage area of the cellular base
station, as a WLAN access point to be measured.
[0033] In the first embodiment to the third embodiment, in the step
A, the user terminal acquires received power information indicating
a received power from the WLAN access point, along with the access
point location information, on the basis of the MDT-associated
information.
[0034] In the first embodiment, the step A includes: a step of
acquiring, by the user terminal in an idle state of the cellular
communication, the access point location information, on the basis
of the MDT-associated information; and a step of storing, by the
user terminal in the idle state, the access point location
information. In the step B, the user terminal transmits the access
point location information to a server apparatus included in the
cellular network. In the step C, the cellular base station acquires
the access point location information from the server
apparatus.
[0035] In the second embodiment, the step A includes: a step of
acquiring, by the user terminal in a connected state of the
cellular communication, the access point location information, on
the basis of the MDT-associated information; and a step of storing,
by the user terminal in the connected state, the access point
location information.
[0036] In the second embodiment, the method further includes, prior
to the step B, a step of transmitting, from the user terminal to
the cellular network, notification information indicating that the
user terminal is storing the access point location information.
[0037] In the third embodiment, in the step A, the user terminal in
the connected state of the cellular communication acquires the
access point location information, on the basis of the
MDT-associated information. In the step B, the user terminal
transmits the access point location information, without retaining
the access point location information, to the cellular network.
[0038] In the third embodiment, the MDT-associated information
includes trigger information for triggering an acquisition of the
access point location information and/or triggering a transmission
of the access point location information.
[0039] In the second embodiment and the third embodiment, in the
step B, the user terminal transmits the access point location
information to the cellular base station. In the step C, the
cellular base station acquires the access point location
information transmitted from the user terminal
[0040] In the second embodiment and the third embodiment, in the
step B, the user terminal transmits the access point location
information to a server apparatus included in the cellular network.
In the step C, the cellular base station acquires the access point
location information from the server apparatus.
[0041] In the fourth embodiment, in the step A, the user terminal
that supports an ANDSF acquires ANDSF information including the
access point location information, from an ANDSF server. In the
step B, the user terminal transmits the access point location
information included in the ANDSF information, to the cellular base
station, in response to a request from the cellular base station.
In the step C, the cellular base station acquires the access point
location information transmitted from the user terminal
[0042] In the fourth embodiment, the communication control method
further includes, prior to the step B, a step of transmitting, from
user terminal to the cellular base station, information indicating
whether the ANDSF is supported or information indicating whether to
have the ANDSF information including the access point location
information.
[0043] In the fourth embodiment, the communication control method
further includes a step of transmitting the request from the
cellular base station to the user terminal The request from the
cellular base station includes an identifier indicating a WLAN
access point arranged within a coverage area of the cellular base
station.
[0044] In the fifth embodiment, the step A includes: a step of
acquiring, by the user terminal, the access point location
information corresponding to a WLAN access point for which the user
terminal has an access right; and a step of managing a list
including the access point location information. In the step B, the
user terminal transmits the access point location information
included in the list, to the cellular network, in response to a
request from the cellular base station.
[0045] In the fifth embodiment, in the step B, the user terminal
transmits the access point location information to the cellular
base station. In the step C, the cellular base station acquires the
access point location information transmitted from the user
terminal
[0046] In the fifth embodiment, in the step B, the user terminal
transmits the access point location information to a server
apparatus included in the cellular network. In the step C, the
cellular base station acquires the access point location
information from the server apparatus.
[0047] In the fifth embodiment, the communication control method
further includes, prior to the step B, a step of transmitting, from
the user terminal to the cellular base station, information
indicating whether the user terminal is having the list including
the access point location information.
[0048] In the fifth embodiment, the communication control method
further includes a step of transmitting the request from the
cellular base station to the user terminal The request from the
cellular base station includes an identifier indicating a WLAN
access point arranged within a coverage area of the cellular base
station.
[0049] A user terminal according to the first embodiment to the
fifth embodiment supports a cellular communication and a WLAN
communication. The user terminal includes a controller configured
to acquire access point location information on a geographical
location of a WLAN access point. The controller transmits the
access point location information to a cellular network.
First Embodiment
[0050] With reference to drawings, embodiments of a case where a
cellular communication system (a LTE system) configured in
compliance with the 3GPP standards cooperates with a wireless LAN
(WLAN) system will be described below.
[0051] (System configuration)
[0052] FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram according to the
first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the cellular communication
system includes a plurality of UEs (User Equipments) 100, an
E-UTRAN (Evolved-UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network) 10, and an
EPC (Evolved Packet Core) 20.
[0053] The E-UTRAN 10 corresponds to a radio access network (RAN).
The EPC 20 corresponds to a core network. The E-UTRAN 10 and the
EPC 20 configures a network (i.e., a cellular network) of the
cellular communication system.
[0054] The UE 100 is a mobile radio communication device and
performs a radio communication with a cell with which a connection
is established. The UE 100 corresponds to a user terminal. The UE
100 is a terminal (dual terminal) that supports communication
schemes of both a cellular communication and a WLAN
communication.
[0055] The E-UTRAN 10 includes a plurality of eNBs 200 (evolved
Node-Bs). The eNB 200 corresponds to a cellular base station. The
eNB 200 manages one or more cells and performs a radio
communication with a UE 100 which establishes a connection with the
own cell. It is noted that the "cell" is used as a term indicating
a minimum unit of a radio communication area, and is also used as a
term indicating a function performing radio communication with the
UE 100. Further, the eNB 200, for example, has a radio resource
management (RRM) function, a routing function of user data, and a
measurement control function for mobility control and
scheduling.
[0056] The eNBs 200 are connected mutually via an X2 interface.
Further, the eNB 200 is connected to MME (Mobility Management
Entity)/S-GW (Serving-Gateway) 500 included in the EPC 20 via an S1
interface.
[0057] The EPC 20 includes a plurality of MMEs/S-GWs 500. The MME
is a network node that performs various mobility controls and the
like for the UE 100 and corresponds to a control station. The S-GW
is a network node that performs the transfer control of user data
and corresponds to a switching center.
[0058] The WLAN system includes WLAN access points (hereinafter
simply referred to as "APs") 300. The AP 300 is an AP (Operator
controlled AP) managed by an operator of the cellular communication
system.
[0059] The WLAN system is configured in compliance with various
IEEE 802.11 standards, for example. The AP 300 communicates with
the UE 100 in a frequency band (WLAN frequency band) different from
a cellular frequency band. The AP 300 is connected to the EPC 20
via routers and the like.
[0060] It is not limited to the case in which the eNB 200 and the
AP 300 are individually located. The eNB 200 and the AP 300 may be
collocated at the same place. The eNB 200 and the AP 300 may be
directly connected to each other through an arbitrary interface of
an operator, as one collocated configuration.
[0061] The EPC 20 further includes an OAM (Operation and
Maintenance) server 600. The OAM server 600 is a server apparatus
for the operation and maintenance of a cellular network.
[0062] The EPC 20 further includes an ANDSF server 700. The ANDSF
server 700 manages ANDSF information regarding the WLAN. The ANDSF
server 700 provides the ANDSF information regarding the WLAN to the
UE 100 by NAS messages. In the first embodiment (as well as the
second embodiment, the third embodiment, and the fifth embodiment),
the ANDSF server 700 may not necessarily be provided.
[0063] Next, the configurations of the UE 100, the eNB 200, and the
AP 300 will be described.
[0064] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the UE 100. As shown in FIG. 2,
the UE 100 includes: antennas 101 and 102; a cellular communication
unit 111; a WLAN communication unit 112; a user interface 120; a
GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver 130; a battery
140; a memory 150; and a processor 160. The memory 150 and the
processor 160 configures a controller. The UE 100 may not have the
GNSS receiver 130. Furthermore, the memory 150 may be integrally
configured with the processor 160, and this set (i.e., a chipset)
may be called a processor 160'.
[0065] The antenna 101 and the cellular communication unit 111 are
used for transmitting and receiving a cellular radio signal. The
cellular communication unit 111 converts a baseband signal output
from the processor 160 into a cellular radio signal, and transmits
it from the antenna 101. The cellular communication unit 111
converts a cellular radio signal received by the antenna 101 into a
baseband signal, and outputs it to the processor 160.
[0066] The antenna 102 and the WLAN communication unit 112 are used
for transmitting and receiving a WLAN radio signal. The WLAN
communication unit 112 converts a baseband signal output from the
processor 160 into a WLAN radio signal, and transmits it from the
antenna 102. The WLAN communication unit 112 converts a WLAN radio
signal received by the antenna 102 into a baseband signal, and
outputs it to the processor 160.
[0067] The user interface 120 is an interface with a user carrying
the UE 100, and includes a display, a microphone, a speaker, and
various buttons, for example. Upon receipt of an input from a user,
the user interface 120 outputs a signal indicating a content of the
input to the processor 160. The GNSS receiver 130 receives a GNSS
signal in order to obtain location information indicating a
geographical location of the UE 100, and outputs the received
signal to the processor 160. The battery 140 stores a power to be
supplied to each block of the UE 100.
[0068] The memory 150 stores a program to be executed by the
processor 160 and information to be used for a process by the
processor 160. The processor 160 includes a baseband processor that
performs modulation and demodulation, encoding and decoding and the
like on a baseband signal, and a CPU that performs various
processes by executing the program stored in the memory 150. The
processor 160 may further include a codec that performs encoding
and decoding on sound and video signals. The processor 160 executes
various processes and various communication protocols described
later.
[0069] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the eNB 200. As shown in FIG.
3, the eNB 200 includes an antenna 201, a cellular communication
unit 210, a network interface 220, a memory 230, and a processor
240. The memory 230 and the processor 240 configures a
controller.
[0070] The antenna 201 and the cellular communication unit 210 are
used for transmitting and receiving a cellular radio signal. The
cellular communication unit 210 converts a baseband signal output
from the processor 240 into a cellular radio signal, and transmits
it from the antenna 201. Furthermore, the cellular communication
unit 210 converts a cellular radio signal received by the antenna
201 into a baseband signal, and outputs it to the processor
240.
[0071] The network interface 220 is connected to a neighboring eNB
200 via the X2 interface and is connected to the MME/S-GW 500 via
the S1 interface. The network interface 220 is also used for a
communication with the AP 300 via the EPC 20.
[0072] The memory 230 stores a program to be executed by the
processor 240 and information to be used for a process by the
processor 240. The processor 240 includes a baseband processor that
performs modulation and demodulation, encoding and decoding and the
like on a baseband signal, and a CPU that performs various
processes by executing the program stored in the memory 230. The
processor 240 executes various processes and various communication
protocols described later.
[0073] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the AP 300. As shown in FIG. 4,
the AP 300 includes an antenna 301, a WLAN communication unit 311,
a network interface 320, a memory 330, and a processor 340.
[0074] The antenna 301 and the WLAN communication unit 311 are used
for transmitting and receiving a WLAN radio signal. The WLAN
communication unit 311 converts a baseband signal output from the
processor 340 into a WLAN radio signal, and transmits it from the
antenna 301. The WLAN communication unit 311 converts a WLAN radio
signal received by the antenna 301 into a baseband signal, and
outputs it to the processor 340.
[0075] The network interface 320 is connected to the EPC 20 via
routers, etc. Further, the network interface 320 is used for a
communication with the eNB 200 via the EPC 20.
[0076] The memory 330 stores a program to be executed by the
processor 340 and information to be used for a process by the
processor 340. The processor 340 includes a baseband processor that
performs modulation and demodulation, encoding and decoding and the
like on the baseband signal, and a CPU that executes various
processes by executing the program stored in the memory 330.
[0077] FIG. 5 is a protocol stack diagram of a radio interface in
the cellular communication system. As shown in FIG. 5, the radio
interface protocol is classified into a layer 1 to a layer 3 of an
OSI reference model, wherein the layer 1 is a physical (PHY) layer.
The layer 2 includes a MAC (Medium Access Control) layer, an RLC
(Radio Link Control) layer, and a PDCP (Packet Data Convergence
Protocol) layer. The layer 3 includes an RRC (Radio Resource
Control) layer.
[0078] The PHY layer performs encoding and decoding, modulation and
demodulation, antenna mapping and demapping, and resource mapping
and demapping. Between the PHY layer of the UE 100 and the PHY
layer of the eNB 200, data is transmitted via physical
channels.
[0079] The MAC layer performs priority control of data, and a
retransmission process and the like by hybrid ARQ (HARQ). Between
the MAC layer of the UE 100 and the MAC layer of the eNB 200, data
is transmitted via transport channels. The MAC layer of the eNB 200
includes a scheduler that selects a transport format (a transport
block size, a modulation and coding scheme and the like) of an
uplink and a downlink, and resource blocks to be assigned.
[0080] The RLC layer transmits data to an RLC layer of a reception
side by using the functions of the MAC layer and the PHY layer.
Between the RLC layer of the UE 100 and the RLC layer of the eNB
200, data is transmitted via logical channels.
[0081] The PDCP layer performs header compression and
decompression, and encryption and decryption.
[0082] The RRC layer is defined only in a control plane. Between
the RRC layer of the UE 100 and the RRC layer of the eNB 200,
control messages (RRC messages) for various settings are
transmitted. The RRC layer controls the logical channel, the
transport channel, and the physical channel in response to
establishment, re-establishment, and release of a radio bearer.
When there is a connection (RRC connection) between the RRC of the
UE 100 and the RRC of the eNB 200, the UE 100 is in a connected
state (RRC connected state) of cellular communication, otherwise,
the UE 100 is in an idle state (RRC idle state) of cellular
communication.
[0083] A NAS (Non-Access Stratum) layer positioned above the RRC
layer performs session management, mobility management and the
like. The MME 300 and the ANDSF server 700 exchange NAS messages
with UE 100.
[0084] (Operation According to the First Embodiment)
[0085] An operation according to the first embodiment will be
described below.
[0086] (1) Operational environment
[0087] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an operational environment
according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, a plurality
of APs 300 are provided within a coverage area of the eNB 200. The
AP 300 is an AP (Operator controlled AP) managed by an
operator.
[0088] A plurality of UEs 100 are located within a coverage area of
the AP 300, and within the coverage area of the eNB 200. The UE 100
establishes a connection with the eNB 200, and is performing a
cellular communication with the eNB 200. In particular, the UE 100
transmits and receives cellular radio signals including traffic
(user data) from/to the eNB 200. Alternatively, some UEs 100 may
not establish a connection with the eNB 200.
[0089] Here, in order to enhance a RAN level cooperation between
the cellular communication system and the WLAN system, it is
preferable that the eNB 200 knows a geographic location of the AP
300 (In particular, AP 300 provided in the own coverage area).
[0090] However, as described above, a case where the eNB 200 can't
acquire AP location information from the ANDSF server 700 is
supposed. In such case, it is difficult for the eNB 200 to know the
geographic location of the AP 300.
[0091] So, the first embodiment expands a function of "Logged MDT
in Idle" such that the eNB 200 can know the geographic location of
the AP 300, even when the eNB 200 can't acquire the AP location
information from the ANDSF server 700.
[0092] (2) Logged MDT in Idle
[0093] In MDT (Minimization of Drive Tests), the UE 100 measures a
radio environment (MDT measurement), and reports a measurement
result with the own location information to the cellular network
side.
[0094] Here, a general Logged MDT (Logged MDT in Idle) will be
described. The Logged MDT includes processes of a MDT measurement
configuration (Measurement configuration), a MDT measurement
(Measurement collection), and a measurement result reporting
(Measurement reporting).
[0095] First, in the MDT measurement configuration, the UE 100 in
connected state receives a MDT configuration message (Logged
Measurement Configuration message) from a cellular network, and
stores various MDT configuration parameters included in the MDT
configuration message. The MDT configuration parameters includes a
logging event, a logging period, and a network absolute time. Here,
the logging refers to a sequence of actions of measuring the radio
environment and storing the measurement result.
[0096] The logging event refers to an event for which the logging
should be performed. Now, a periodic logging is specified and a
logging interval is designated. The logging period refers to a
period for which the logging should be performed. The period from
an execution of the MDT measurement configuration to an end of the
MDT measurement is designated. The network absolute time is
reference time for a time stamp to be added to the measurement
result of radio environment (hereinafter simply referred to as
"measurement result").
[0097] Second, in the MDT measurement, the UE 100 in idle state
performs the logging in accordance with the MDT configuration
parameters (Configuration). In particular, the UE 100 measures the
radio environment about a serving cell (and neighbor cell) when an
event corresponding to the logging event occurs. The radio
environment is a reference signal received power (RSRP) and a
reference signal received quality (RSRQ), for example.
[0098] The UE 100 stores the measurement result along with location
information and a time stamp. A combination of the measurement
result, the location information, and the time stamp is referred to
"measurement log". When the logging period expires, the UE 100
terminates the MDT measurement and activates a timer defining a
period (48 hours in specs) for which the measurement result
(measurement log) should be retained.
[0099] Third, in the measurement result reporting, the UE 100
transmits notification information (referred to as "availability
indicator" in specs) indicating that the UE 100 is retaining the
measurement result, to the cellular network, at a time of
transition from an idle state to a connected state or a handover
and the like.
[0100] The cellular network requests, to the UE 100, a transmission
(reporting) of measurement result based on the availability
indicator. The UE 100 transmits the measurement result (measurement
log) to the cellular network in response to a request from the
cellular network. The cellular network performs a network
optimization such as coverage problem resolution based on the
measurement result (measurement log) from the UE 100.
[0101] (3) Operation sequence according to the first embodiment
[0102] As described above, the first embodiment enables the eNB 200
to know the geographic location of AP 300 by expanding the function
of the Logged MDT (Logged MDT in Idle). FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are
operation sequence diagrams according to the first embodiment.
[0103] As shown in FIG. 7, in step S101, the OAM server 600
requests an execution of Logged MDT in Idle, to the eNB 200
included in the E-UTRAN 10. However, step S101 may be omitted.
[0104] In step S102, the eNB 200 transmits a Logged Measurement
Configuration message, to the UE 100 in connected state. In the
first embodiment, the Logged Measurement Configuration message
corresponds to MDT-associated information.
[0105] The Logged Measurement Configuration message may include
information (hereinafter referred to as "AP measurement request")
for requesting a measurement of AP 300 in addition to the
aforementioned MDT configuration parameters. The Logged Measurement
Configuration message may include identifiers (hereinafter referred
to as "AP identifier") of APs 300 provided in the coverage area of
the eNB 200, as measurement target AP 300. The AP identifier is a
SSID (Service Set Identifier) or a BSSID (Basic Service Set
Identifier). The UE 100 stores the MDT configuration parameters
included in the Logged Measurement Configuration message.
Furthermore, with the Logged Measurement Configuration message, the
eNB 200 may transmit information for requesting to include detailed
location information obtained from the GNSS receiver 130, to the UE
100.
[0106] In step S103, the UE 100 which has transitioned to idle
state from connected state performs the logging in accordance with
the MDT configuration parameters. In the first embodiment, the UE
100 performs the logging of AP 300, in addition to the logging of a
cellular communication serving cell (and neighbor cell), or in
place of the logging of a cellular communication serving cell (and
neighbor cell). The UE 100 may perform the logging of AP 300
autonomously, provided that the WLAN communication unit 112 is an
ON state, even when the AP measurement request is not included in
the MDT configuration parameters.
[0107] The UE 100 measures a radio environment regarding measurable
APs 300 during the logging of AP 300. The radio environment
regarding AP 300 is a received power of a WLAN radio signal (e.g.,
beacon signal) received from the AP 300, for example. The UE 100
stores the measurement result (hereinafter referred to as "AP
measurement result") on the AP 300 along with location information
and a time stamp. The AP measurement result includes AP
identifiers. In the first embodiment, a combination of the AP
measurement result, the location information, and the time stamp is
referred to as "AP information". The location information
corresponding to the AP measurement result is referred to as "AP
location information".
[0108] In step S104, the UE 100 transmits an availability indicator
indicating that the UE 100 is retaining the measurement result, to
the eNB 200 included in E-UTRAN 10, at a transition from idle state
to connected state or a handover and the like.
[0109] In step S105, the eNB 200 that has received the availability
indicator requests a transmission (reporting) of the measurement
result, to the UE 100.
[0110] In steps S106 and S107, the UE 100 transmits the retained
measurement result (including AP information) to the OAM server 600
via the eNB 200 in response to a request from the eNB 200.
[0111] The OAM server 600 acquires the measurement result
(including AP information) from the UE 100. In the first
embodiment, the OAM server 600 manages location information (AP
location information) per AP 300 based on the AP measurement result
and the location information included in the AP information. The
OAM server 600 may manage the location information of AP 300 in
association with the coverage area (cell) including the AP 300
based on a cellular measurement result and the AP measurement
result. The OAM server 600 provides the AP location information to
the eNB 200.
[0112] As shown in FIG. 8, in step S151, the eNB 200 requests a
provision of AP location information to the OAM server 600.
However, step S151 may be omitted.
[0113] In step S152, the OAM server 600 transmits the AP location
information to the eNB 200. For example, the OAM server 600
transmits the location information of AP 300 provided in the
coverage area (cell) of the eNB 200, to the eNB 200. Thus, the eNB
200 acquires the AP location information from the OAM server
600.
[0114] (Conclusion of the First Embodiment)
[0115] In the first embodiment, the UE 100 in idle state acquires
the AP location information and retains the AP location
information. Then, the UE 100 transmits the AP location information
to the OAM server 600 included in the cellular network. The eNB 200
acquires the AP location information from the OAM server 600.
Therefore, the eNB 200 can know the geographic location of AP 300
by expanding the function of "Logged MDT in Idle", even when there
is no ANDSF server 700 or there is no interface between the ANDSF
server 700 and the eNB 200.
Second Embodiment
[0116] For the second embodiment, differences with the
above-described first embodiment will be mainly described. The
second embodiment enables the eNB 200 to know the geographic
location of AP 300 by means of "Logged MDT in Connected". The
system configuration and the operational environment according to
the second embodiment are similar to the first embodiment.
[0117] (Operation According to the Second Embodiment)
[0118] The operation according to the second embodiment will be
described below.
[0119] (1) Logged MDT in Connected
[0120] The Logged MDT in Connected is one type of Logged MDT, but
the MDT measurement is performed by the UE 100 in connected state.
Here, differences between the Logged MDT in Connected and the
Logged MDT in Idle will be mainly described.
[0121] First, in MDT measurement configuration, the UE 100 in
connected state receives a MDT configuration message (Connected MDT
Configuration message) from a cellular network, and stores various
MDT configuration parameters included in the MDT configuration
message.
[0122] Second, in MDT measurement, the UE 100 in connected state
performs the logging in accordance with the MDT configuration
parameters (Configuration).
[0123] Third, in measurement result reporting, the UE 100 transmits
the measurement result (measurement log) to the cellular network in
response to a request from the eNB 200. The cellular network
performs a network optimization such as coverage problem resolution
based on the measurement result (measurement log) from the UE
100.
[0124] (2) Operation sequence according to second embodiment
[0125] As described above, the second embodiment enables the eNB
200 to know the geographic location of AP 300 by means of the
Logged MDT in Connected. FIG. 9 is an operation sequence diagram
according to the second embodiment.
[0126] As shown in FIG. 9, in step S201, the eNB 200 transmits the
Connected MDT Configuration message to the UE 100 in connected
state. In the second embodiment, the Connected MDT Configuration
message corresponds to MDT-associated information.
[0127] The Connected MDT Configuration message may include
information (AP measurement request) for requesting a measurement
of AP 300 in addition to the aforementioned MDT configuration
parameters. The Connected MDT Configuration message may include
identifiers (AP identifier) indicating APs 300 provided within the
coverage area of the eNB 200, as measurement target AP 300. The UE
100 includes MDT configuration parameters included in the Connected
MDT Configuration message.
[0128] In the second embodiment, the Connected MDT Configuration
message may include information (hereinafter referred to as "WLAN
ON request") for requesting to turn on the WLAN communication unit
112. Furthermore, the Connected MDT Configuration message may
include information for requesting to include detailed location
information obtained from the GNSS receiver 130. Alternatively, the
eNB 200 may transmit information for requesting to include detailed
location information obtained from the GNSS receiver 130 along with
the Connected MDT Configuration message, to the UE 100.
[0129] In step S202, the UE 100 in connected state performs the
logging in accordance with the MDT configuration parameters. In the
second embodiment, the UE 100 performs the logging of AP 300 in
place of the logging of a cellular communication serving cell (and
neighbor cell), or in addition to the logging of a cellular
communication serving cell (and neighbor cell).
[0130] The UE 100 may perform the logging of AP 300 autonomously,
provided that the WLAN communication unit 112 is an ON state, even
when the AP measurement request is not included in the MDT
configuration parameters. When an AP identifier is included in the
MDT configuration parameters, the UE 100 may perform the logging
for the AP identifier. Furthermore, when the WLAN communication
unit 112 is an OFF state and an AP identifier is included in the
MDT configuration parameters, the UE 100 may turn on the WLAN
communication unit 112 autonomously without an explicit "WLAN ON"
request.
[0131] In the logging of AP 300, the UE 100 measures the radio
environment about measurable AP 300. The radio environment about
measurable AP 300 refers to the received power of a WLAN radio
signal (e.g., beacon signal) received from the AP 300, for example.
The UE 100 stores the measurement result (AP measurement result)
about the AP 300 along with location information and time stamp.
The AP measurement result includes AP identifiers. In the second
embodiment, a combination of the AP measurement result, the
location information, and the time stamp is referred to as "AP
information". The location information corresponding to the AP
measurement result is referred to as "AP location information".
[0132] In step S203, the eNB 200 requests a transmission
(reporting) of the measurement result, to the UE 100. For example,
when the eNB 200 determines to disconnect a connection with the UE
100, the eNB 200 requests a transmission (reporting) of the
measurement result, to the UE 100, before the eNB 200 performs a
process of disconnecting the connection with the UE 100.
[0133] In step S204, the UE 100 transmits the stored measurement
result (including AP information) to the eNB 200 in response to a
request from the eNB 200. The eNB 200 receives the measurement
result (including AP information) from the UE 100.
[0134] (Conclusion of the Second Embodiment)
[0135] In the second embodiment, the UE 100 in connected state
acquires the AP location information and stores the AP location
information. Then, the UE 100 transmits the AP location information
to the eNB 200. The eNB 200 acquires the AP location information
transmitted from the UE 100. Therefore, the eNB 200 can know the
geographic location of the AP 300 by means of the Logged MDT in
Connected, even when there is no ANDSF server 700 or there is no
interface between the ANDSF server 700 and the eNB 200.
[0136] [Modification 1 of the Second Embodiment]
[0137] In the aforementioned second embodiment, the eNB 200
acquires the AP information (including AP location information)
from the UE 100 directly. However, the OAM server 600 may provide
the AP information to eNB 200, similar to the aforementioned first
embodiment. Specifically, the UE 100 transmits the AP information
to the OAM server 600. The eNB 200 acquires the AP information from
the OAM server 600.
[0138] [Modification 2 of the Second Embodiment]
[0139] In the aforementioned second embodiment, the eNB 200
requests the transmission (reporting) of the measurement result, to
the UE 100, in step S203. However, the UE 100 may transmit the
measurement result or an availability indicator, without performing
the request in step S203, when the measured received power from an
AP 300 falls below a threshold for example.
Third Embodiment
[0140] For the second embodiment, differences with the
above-described first embodiment will be mainly described. The
second embodiment enables the eNB 200 to know the geographic
location of AP 300 by expanding the function of "Immediate MDT".
The system configuration and the operational environment according
to the third embodiment are similar to the first embodiment.
[0141] (Operation According to the Third Embodiment)
[0142] The operation according to the second embodiment will be
described below.
[0143] (1) Immediate MDT
[0144] Here, a general Immediate MDT will be described. The
Immediate MDT is one type of MDT and is performed by adding
location information to a measurement report for a mobility
control. That is, in the Immediate MDT, the UE 100 reports a
measurement result to the eNB 200 immediately, without retaining
the measurement result until the measurement can be reported.
[0145] First, the UE 100 in connected state receives a measurement
configuration message (Measurement Configuration message) from a
cellular network, and stores various measurement configuration
parameters included in the Measurement Configuration message. The
measurement parameters include a report trigger which is a trigger
to transmit a measurement report. In the Immediate MDT, the
Measurement Configuration message includes information (referred to
as "Include Location Info" in specs) for requesting include
location information.
[0146] Second, the UE 100 in connected state measures a radio
environment of a serving cell (and neighbor cell). The radio
environment is a reference signal received power (RSRP) and a
reference signal received quality (RSRQ), for example. The UE 100
acquires location information.
[0147] Third, the UE 100 transmits a measurement report including
the measurement result and the location information, when an event
corresponding to the report trigger occurs.
[0148] (2) Operation Sequence According to Third Embodiment
[0149] As described above, the third embodiment enables the eNB 200
to know the geographic location of AP 300 by expanding the function
of the Immediate MDT. FIG. 10 is an operation sequence diagram
according to the third embodiment.
[0150] As shown in FIG. 10, in step S301, the eNB 200 transmits a
Measurement Configuration message including the "Include Location
Info" to the UE 100 in connected state. In the second embodiment,
the Measurement Configuration message including the "Include
Location Info" corresponds to MDT-associated information.
[0151] In the third embodiment, the measurement trigger included in
the Measurement Configuration message is a trigger type defining an
event regarding a radio environment of AP 300. The measurement
trigger may be a trigger type "a radio environment of AP 300 is
better than serving cell", for example. Alternatively, the
Measurement Configuration message may include trigger information
for triggering an acquisition of AP location information and/or a
transmission of AP location information.
[0152] The Measurement Configuration message may include
identifiers (AP identifier) indicating APs 300 provided in the
coverage area of the eNB 200, as measurement target AP 300.
[0153] In the third embodiment, the Measurement Configuration
message may include information (WLAN ON request) for requesting to
turn on the WLAN communication unit 112. Furthermore, the
Measurement Configuration message may include information for
requesting to include detailed location information obtained from
the GNSS receiver 130.
[0154] In step S302, the UE 100 in connected state performs a
measurement in accordance with the Measurement Configuration
message. In the third embodiment, the UE 100 performs a measurement
of AP 300, in addition to the measurement of a cellular
communication serving cell (and neighbor cell), or in place of the
measurement of a cellular communication serving cell (and neighbor
cell).
[0155] When the WLAN communication unit 112 is an OFF state and an
AP identifier is included in the Measurement Configuration, the UE
100 may turn on the WLAN communication unit 112 autonomously
without an explicit "WLAN ON" request.
[0156] In the measurement of AP 300, the UE 100 measures a radio
environment about measurable APs 300. The radio environment of AP
300 refers to a received power of a WLAN radio signal (e.g., beacon
signal) received from the AP 300, for example. When an AP
identifier is included in the MDT configuration parameters, the UE
100 may perform the measurement for the AP identifier.
[0157] In step S303, the UE 100 transmits the measurement report
including the measurement result (AP measurement result) and the
location information, to the eNB 200. In the third embodiment, a
combination of the AP measurement result and the location
information is referred to as "AP information". The location
information corresponding to the AP measurement result is referred
to as "AP location information". The eNB 200 receives the
measurement report from the UE 100.
[0158] (Conclusion of the Third Embodiment)
[0159] In the third embodiment, the UE 100 in connected state
acquires the AP location information. The UE 100 transmits the AP
location information to the eNB 200 without retaining the AP
location information. The eNB 200 acquires the AP location
information transmitted from the UE 100. Therefore, the eNB 200 can
know the geographic location of the AP 300 by expanding the
function of the Immediate MDT, even when there is no ANDSF server
700 or there is no interface between the ANDSF server 700 and the
eNB 200.
[0160] [Modification of the Third Embodiment]
[0161] In the aforementioned third embodiment, the eNB 200 acquires
the AP information from the UE 100 directly. However, the OAM
server 600 may provide the AP information to eNB 200, similar to
the aforementioned first embodiment. Specifically, the UE 100
transmits the AP information to the OAM server 600. The eNB 200
acquires the AP information from the OAM server 600.
Fourth Embodiment
[0162] For the fourth embodiment, differences with the
above-described first embodiment to the third embodiment will be
mainly described. In the fourth embodiment, the eNB 200 acquires AP
location information from the UE 100 by utilizing ANDSF, without
utilizing MDT. The system configuration and the operational
environment according to the fourth embodiment are similar to the
first embodiment.
[0163] (Operation According to the Fourth Embodiment)
[0164] The operation according to the second embodiment will be
described below.
[0165] (1) ANDSF
[0166] Here, a general ANDSF will be described. The ANDSF server
700 (see FIG. 1) provides ANDSF information on AP 300 to the UE 100
by means of NAS messages. The ANDSF information includes a
combination of AP identifiers and AP location information.
[0167] The UE 100 can efficiently discover APs 300 by performing an
AP discovery process based on the ANDSF information. The UE 100
turns on the WLAN communication unit 112, in the proximity of a
geographic location indicated by AP location information included
in the ANDSF information, for example. Then, the UE 100 discover
the AP 300 by searching (scanning) a beacon signal including an AP
identifier included in the ANDSF information.
[0168] (2) Operation Sequence According to the Fourth
Embodiment
[0169] FIG. 11 is an operation sequence diagram according to the
fourth embodiment. Here, a case where the UE 100 supports the ANDSF
is supposed.
[0170] As shown in FIG. 11, in step S401, the ANDSF server 700
provides ANDSF information on AP 300 to the UE 100 by means of NAS
messages.
[0171] In step S402, the UE 100 stores the ANDSF information from
the ANDSF server 700.
[0172] In step S403, the eNB 200 transmits inquiry information
regarding the AP location information to the UE 100. The inquiry
information is information for inquiring whether the UE 100
supports ANDSF, or information for inquiring whether the UE 100 has
ANDSF information including the AP location information.
[0173] Alternatively, the inquiry information may be information
for inquiring whether the UE 100 has ANDSF information including
the AP location information on a specific AP 300 provided in the
coverage area of the eNB 200. In this case, inquiry information
includes AP the identifier of the specific AP 300.
[0174] In step S404, the UE 100 that has received the inquiry
information transmits a response for the inquiry to the eNB 200.
Specifically, the UE 100 transmits, to the eNB 200, information
indicating whether the UE 100 supports ANDSF, or information
indicating whether the UE 100 has ANDSF information including the
AP location information.
[0175] In steps S403 and S404, the eNB 200 can decide whether the
AP location information (ANDSF information) can be acquired from
the UE 100. However, steps S403 and S404 are not mandatory and may
be omitted.
[0176] In step S405, the eNB 200 requests a transmission of the
ANDSF information including the AP location information, to the UE
100. The eNB 200 may request, to the UE 100, a transmission of the
AP location information (ANDSF information) by designating a
specific AP 300 provided in the own coverage area. In this case,
the request from the eNB 200 includes an AP identifier of the
specific AP 300.
[0177] In step S406, the UE 100 transmits the AP location
information (ANDSF information) to the eNB 200 in response to the
request from the eNB 200. When the AP identifier of the specific AP
300 is included in the request from the eNB 200, the UE 100
transmits AP location information (ANDSF information) corresponding
to the AP identifier to the eNB 200. Alternatively, when the ANDSF
information includes information on each AP 300 within a wide area,
the UE 100 transmits AP location information (ANDSF information) to
the eNB 200 with limiting to AP 300 near to the UE 100 (within a
predetermined range from the current position).
[0178] (Conclusion of the Fourth Embodiment)
[0179] In the fourth embodiment, the UE 100 supporting ANDSF
acquires ANDSF information including AP location information from
the ANDSF server 700. The UE 100 transmits the AP location
information included in the ANDSF information to the eNB 200 in
response to a request from the eNB 200. The eNB 200 acquires the AP
location information transmitted from the UE 100. Therefore, the
eNB 200 can know the geographic location of the AP 300 even when
there is no interface between the ANDSF server 700 and the eNB
200.
Fifth embodiment
[0180] For the fifth embodiment, differences with the
above-described first embodiment to the fourth embodiment will be
mainly described. In the fifth embodiment, the eNB 200 acquires AP
location information from the UE 100 by utilizing AP whitelists,
without utilizing MDT or ANDSF. The system configuration and the
operational environment according to the fifth embodiment are
similar to the first embodiment.
[0181] (Operation According to the Fifth Embodiment)
[0182] The operation according to the fifth embodiment will be
described below.
[0183] (1) AP Whitelist
[0184] The AP whitelist according to the fifth embodiment will be
described. In the fifth embodiment, the UE 100 stores and manages
an AP whitelist which is a list on APs 300 (operator controlled APs
and the like) for which the own UE 100 has an access right. The AP
whitelist includes AP identifiers of APs 300, and AP location
information of the APs 300.
[0185] There are a case where the UE 100 updates the AP whitelist
autonomously, a case where a cellular network sets the AP whitelist
to the UE 100, and a case where these cases are combined.
[0186] The UE 100 updates the AP whitelist when an AP 300 notifies
the UE 100 of information that the AP 300 is an operator controlled
AP, after the UE 100 connects to the AP 300, in a case where the UE
100 updates the AP whitelist autonomously.
[0187] On the other hand, the UE 100 receives and stores the AP
whitelist from the cellular network, in a case where the cellular
network sets the AP whitelist to the UE 100. In this case, the AP
whitelist may be managed per eNB 200 (or per cell) or per tracking
area.
[0188] The UE 100 turns on the WLAN communication unit 112, in the
proximity of a geographic location indicated by AP location
information included in the AP whitelist, for example. Then, the UE
100 discover the AP 300 by searching (scanning) a beacon signal
including an AP identifier included in the AP whitelist.
[0189] (2) Operation Sequence According to the Fifth Embodiment
[0190] FIG. 12 is an operation sequence diagram according to the
fifth embodiment.
[0191] As shown in FIG. 12, in step S501, the UE 100 manages the AP
whitelist.
[0192] In step S502, the eNB 200 transmits inquiry information
regarding AP location information to the UE 100. The inquiry
information is information for inquiring whether the UE 100 has the
AP whitelist including the AP location information.
[0193] Alternatively, the inquiry information may be information
for inquiring whether the UE 100 has the AP whitelist including the
AP location information on a specific AP 300 provided in the
coverage area of the eNB 200. In this case, inquiry information
includes AP the identifier of the specific AP 300.
[0194] In step S503, the UE 100 that has received the inquiry
information transmits a response for the inquiry to the eNB 200.
Specifically, the UE 100 transmits, to the eNB 200, information
indicating whether the UE 100 has the AP whitelist including the AP
location information.
[0195] In steps S502 and S503, the eNB 200 can decide whether the
AP location information (AP whitelist) can be acquired from the UE
100. However, steps S502 and S503 are not mandatory and may be
omitted.
[0196] In step S504, the eNB 200 requests a transmission of the AP
whitelist including the AP location information, to the UE 100. The
eNB 200 may request, to the UE 100, a transmission of the AP
location information (AP whitelist) by designating a specific AP
300 provided in the own coverage area. In this case, the request
from the eNB 200 includes an AP identifier of the specific AP
300.
[0197] In step S505, the UE 100 transmits the AP location
information (AP whitelist) to the eNB 200 in response to the
request from the eNB 200. When the AP identifier of the specific AP
300 is included in the request from the eNB 200, the UE 100
transmits AP location information (AP whitelist) corresponding to
the AP identifier to the eNB 200. Alternatively, when the AP
whitelist includes information on each AP 300 within a wide area,
the UE 100 transmits AP location information (ANDSF information) to
the eNB 200 with limiting to AP 300 near to the UE 100 (within a
predetermined range from the current position).
[0198] (Conclusion of the Fifth Embodiment)
[0199] In the fifth embodiment, the UE 100 acquires AP location
information corresponding to APs 300 for which the own UE 100 has
an access right, and manages an AP whitelist including the AP
location information. The UE 100 transmits the AP location
information included the AP whitelist to the eNB 200 in response to
a request from the eNB 200. The eNB 200 acquires the AP location
information transmitted from the UE 100. Therefore, the eNB 200 can
know the geographic location of the AP 300, even when there is no
ANDSF server 700 or there is no interface between the ANDSF server
700 and the eNB 200.
[0200] [Modification of the Fifth Embodiment]
[0201] In the aforementioned fifth embodiment, the eNB 200 acquires
the AP information from the UE 100 directly. However, the OAM
server 600 may provide the AP information to eNB 200, similar to
the aforementioned first embodiment. Specifically, the UE 100
transmits the AP information to the OAM server 600. The eNB 200
acquires the AP information from the OAM server 600.
Other Embodiments
[0202] The aforementioned first to fifth embodiments are not
limited to implement separately. The embodiments may be implement
by combining each other.
[0203] In the aforementioned first embodiment, Modification 1 of
the second embodiment, Modification of the third embodiment, and
Modification of the fifth embodiment, the OAM server 600 may
calculate location information of APs 300 appeared to be
statistically probable based on the information acquired from
plural UEs 100 (and by several means).
[0204] In the aforementioned first to fifth embodiments, the detail
of AP location information has not described especially. However,
the information of AP 300 indicates the geographic location of the
AP 300, and indicates the longitude and latitude of the AP 300.
When considering a case where plural APs 300 are provided in
different floors of the same building, the AP location information
may include the altitude of AP 300 in addition to the longitude and
latitude of the AP 300.
[0205] In the aforementioned first to fifth embodiments, although a
use case of the AP location information in the eNB 200 has not
described especially, there are use cases below for example.
[0206] The eNB 200 manages RAN level assistance information (RAN
level WLAN discovery assistance information) for discovering APs
300 efficiently, based on acquired AP location information.
[0207] Then, the eNB 200 transmits the RAN level assistance
information to UEs 100 by means of broadcasts. Thus, even when UEs
100 are unavailable for the ANDSF, each UE 100 within the coverage
area of the eNB 200 can discover the AP 300 efficiently by
performing the AP discovery process based on the RAN level
assistance information.
[0208] The RAN level assistance information is configured as a part
of system information block (SIB), since the RAN level assistance
information is preferable to be received by not only connected
state UEs 100 but also idle state UEs 100. The RAN level assistance
information transmitted by an eNB 200 includes information on each
AP 300 within the coverage area of the eNB 200. The RAN level
assistance information includes identifiers of APs 300, location
information of APs 300 and channel information of APs 300, for
example.
[0209] Alternatively, the eNB 200 may transmit the RAN level
assistance information by means of unicasts. The UE 100 transmits
requesting information (hereinafter referred to as "RAN level
assistance information request") for requesting a transmission of
the RAN level assistance information, to the eNB 200. The RAN level
assistance information request may be regard as an interest
indication indicating an interest to the RAN level assistance
information. The eNB 200 that has received the RAN level assistance
information request transmits the RAN level assistance information
to the UE 100 by means of unicasts. The unicast transmission of the
RAN level assistance information can be achieved by transmitting
the RAN level assistance information by means of a RRC messages,
for example.
[0210] Although the LIE system has been described as one example of
cellular communication systems in the aforementioned embodiments,
the present disclosure is not limited to the LIE system. The
present disclosure is applicable to other systems than the LTE
system.
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